United States of Obesity (2011)

As every year, CalorieLab computed the fattest state rankings based on the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System database maintained by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The rankings use a three-year average in order to smooth out statistical fluctuations.

In general, states in the West and New England rank lowest in the fattest states rankings, while states in the South and the Rust Belt tend to rank highest. Colorado repeats as the slimmest state, despite an increase in obesity of 0.7 percent over three years. The District of Colombia was the second slimmest state, changing places with Connecticut. Although Mississippi took first place in 2011 based on the three-year average used in the rankings, both its one-year overweight and its one-year obesity percentages fell in comparison to the previous year, while Alabama’s one-year figures rose. If this trend continues, Alabama may displace Mississippi as the fattest state within two years.